Visually Impaired Services

Books on CD, MP3 & Playaway

A large selection of fiction and non-fiction material is available in audio format. Located in the AV Area, material on CD disk can be played on any CD player. MP3 format material plays on a wide variety of equipment. Check that the device you wish to use is certified for use with the desired format.

The library also maintains a large collection of Playaways. These MP3 players checkout prerecorded with fiction and nonfiction titles. Simply plug in a pair of headphones and listen to the latest bestseller. Learn more about our audiobook selection.

Another form of audio material, e-audio books are downloaded via the internet and listened to on a computer or compatible MP3 player. To use this service, stop by the library to register and create an account. The service is available to all Grace A Dow Memorial Library card holders and is a popular way to experience over several thousand titles.

Large Print Books

An extensive collection of fiction and non-fiction titles is available in the Large Print area. This collection is frequently updated with bestsellers as well as other notable books. Ask about obtaining a large print edition through interlibrary loan if you can’t locate a copy in our collection.

Magnifier

In the Adult Services area, the library has a device that allows users to magnify and project pages from books and other printed material onto a fully adjustable digital screen. Ask for assistance using this helpful tool. The Magnifier was donated by the Midland County Council on Aging.

Library of Michigan – Service for the Blind & Physically Handicapped

The Michigan Network of Regional and Subregional Libraries serving people with visual and physical handicaps offers best-sellers, mysteries, westerns, biographies, how-to books and other types of materials found in a public library. The only difference is that the books are recorded on cassette or printed in braille and will arrive at your door through the regular U.S. postal service. Just like standard print books, these publications are unabridged (not condensed) and contain all of the information found in the print version - right down to the book jacket. And best of all, this service is free, there is not even a charge to mail materials to or from the library.

You do not need to be legally blind to use these services - if standard print has become difficult for you, a friend, or a family member, please call 800-992-9012.